Santoshi, who co-scripted Dil Hai Tumhara starring Zinta, told IANS: "I don't know what the truth is, but I know Preity very well. She is very hard-working and sincere. She is very courageous, and outspoken."

Speaking at the trailer launch of Chaarfutiya Chhokare Santoshi said: "If the allegation has been made by Preity against Ness Wadia, then I will definitely appreciate her decision and stand by her in her decision.

"Just as it is wrong to commit a crime, it is equally wrong not to speak up. I appreciate her decision to file a complaint against that concerned person and I am with her," he added.

Zinta lodged a written complaint against Ness with the Marine Drive police station on Friday last week.

Police have asked her to provide a detailed statement and are investigating the matter.